This creamy winter lemon chicken gnocchi soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a zesty lemon splash, it’s super comforting on chilly days.
I love how quick this soup comes together—perfect for a cozy night! Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some delicious veggies. Grab a spoon and enjoy a bowl of happiness! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing vegetables. If you prefer, you can substitute with avocado oil for a similar flavor or use butter for a richer taste.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. You can swap it for shallots for a milder flavor or omit it if you’re short on time and taste.
Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi is super convenient, but you can use fresh or even homemade gnocchi for a more personal touch. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or corn.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the soup its creaminess. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk if you’re dairy-free. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit.
Spinach: Fresh is best for this soup, but you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Just thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Lemon Zest and Juice: These add bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work, though fresh really makes a difference!
How Do I Get the Gnocchi to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking gnocchi perfectly is simple. They usually float to the top when done, which is a great visual cue. Here’s how to make sure they’re cooked just right:
- Bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil before adding the gnocchi.
- Let them cook according to package instructions—typically around 2-3 minutes.
- Once they float to the top, they’re ready! Be careful not to overcook them, or they can become mushy.
A little tip: stir gently while cooking to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
How to Make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded or finely chopped
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- Freshly cracked black pepper for garnish
- Toasted bread or croutons for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready in less than 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
2. Add Flavorful Veggies:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and shredded carrots. Sauté them together for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant and the carrots are slightly softened.
3. Bring in the Broth and Gnocchi:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes 2-3 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the cooked chicken, fresh thyme, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes. This step helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Add Cream and Spinach:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Ladle the creamy soup into bowls, add extra black pepper or thyme as a garnish if you like, and serve it hot with toasted bread or croutons on the side.
Enjoy this cozy, creamy soup that warms you up on chilly winter days!
Can I Use Regular Pasta Instead of Gnocchi?
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta for gnocchi! Be sure to cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions before adding it to the soup. You may need to adjust the broth amount based on the pasta you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Pour leftover soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little cream or broth as needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just know that using a substitute may change the flavor and creaminess of the soup.
